1. Define the buyer connection
Start with the customer requirement, not with a generic catalog launch. Identify the procurement system, protocol, test environment, buyer identity, store, collections and expected order documents. A single supplier may need a different connection for each buyer.
Record what is known and what still needs confirmation. In particular, do not infer invoice format, delivery method or credentials from another buyer program.
2. Connect the store and assign access
- 01
Connect the store
Use the Shopify or Shopify Plus store that already contains the supplier catalog.
- 02
Add the buyer
Create the buyer connection with its cXML or OCI requirements.
- 03
Assign catalog access
Choose the store and relevant collections or catalog scope for that buyer.
- 04
Prepare the test
Agree on the session, cart, approval, PO and order checks before launch.
3. Validate the whole transaction
A good implementation test follows the buyer request through the supplier operation: PunchOut started, cart returned, buyer approved, PO received, store order created and invoice generated. Transaction visibility is useful because a team can see the stage where a transaction stopped and why.
Do not declare success when only the catalog opens. The buyer must be able to return the cart and complete the agreed purchase-order path.
4. Go live with an operating handoff
- Save the buyer-specific configuration and test evidence.
- Confirm who owns catalog access changes and buyer questions.
- Confirm how a missing PO or invoice issue will be investigated.
- Review connection count when adding another buyer or store.
- Use reporting and transaction history after launch to monitor activity.